Polk Audio takes a new take on the connected soundbar experience, with the new Polk React, a $ 249 soundbar that can be expanded via an optional $ 199 React wireless subwoofer and top set. - $ 199 SR2 wireless surround speakers. All three components are available from today on the Polk Audio website, Amazon and other authorized resellers.
On its own, the React Soundbar can deliver a virtualized Dolby Digital or DTS 5.1 surround sound experience through HDMI ARC or an optical connection to your TV. Inside the soundbar are two mid-range speakers, two tweeters, and two passive radiators for bass. The addition of optional components makes it a true discreet 5.1 home theater system, with no wiring required.
As an Alexa-powered smart speaker, it also has other tricks in its fabric-wrapped cover.
With four far-field microphones, Polk says he has no problem detecting your favorite Alexa wake word, even in noisy environments. It is compatible with the Alexa multiroom music platform, so you can add it to a series of other wireless speakers in your home, each controlled by the Alexa app.
Naturally, all the usual Alexa-based voice tasks like getting the weather forecast or managing shopping lists will work, but there are soundbar-specific skills as well, like asking Alexa to adjust the volume. and bass levels and select listening modes.
The React also works with other Alexa home theater devices like a Fire TV Stick or Fire TV Blaster. When connected to a Fire TV Stick, you can use the React to queue up and play movies or TV shows without touching a remote. If you have a Fire TV Blaster, that control extends to TVs, cable boxes, and other devices.
Since the React is compatible with the Alexa communication feature, you can use it for hands-free and free calls to your friends and family in the United States, Canada and Mexico, if they also have access to it. " a compatible Alexa device.
Voice control is the easiest way to work with the React, but it also comes with its own dedicated remote. This can be used to access the one-button preset sound modes: Movie Mode, Music Mode and Night Mode. But you can also use it with Polk Audio's Voice Adjust technology, which allows you to adjust voice and dialogue levels without affecting the volume of background sounds.
This model does not support AirPlay or Chromecast, but there is Bluetooth for audio streaming from your smartphone or tablet.
Polk Audio has a good reputation for its quality sound systems, so we expect the React to perform very well for its price, but as soon as we get a chance to test it in person, we'll let you know the final verdict. .
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https://www.digitaltrends.com/home-theater/polk-react-5-1-wireless-modular-soundbar/
